Slender Hare's Ear
bupleurum tenuissimum
Also known as: ["Slender Hare's Ear"]
Overview
A slender, herbaceous plant with narrow leaves and small, yellow flowers, often found in grassy areas.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Bupleurum |
| Botanical Name: | Bupleurum tenuissimum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing some afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; monitor for sunburn signs.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for indoor plants.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or crossing branches; shape the plant; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Provide protection from frost; ensure well-draining soil; move potted plants indoors during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBupleurum tenuissimum is not considered toxic to cats. Ingestion of seeds or roots is unlikely to cause significant harm, though large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBupleurum tenuissimum is not considered toxic to dogs. Ingestion of seeds or roots is unlikely to cause significant harm, though large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBupleurum tenuissimum is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of seeds or roots in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their slightly bitter taste and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Bupleurum tenuissimum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Bupleurum tenuissimum grow?
A: It thrives in grassy areas with well-drained soil and partial sunlight.
Q: What are the uses of Bupleurum tenuissimum?
A: It is primarily ornamental and attracts wildlife, though some species in the genus have medicinal uses.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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